The panel discussion “AI Sovereignty and Scale: Governing Frontier Technologies in a Competitive World” was held within the framework of the Yerevan Dialogue 2026, bringing together policymakers and industry representatives to examine the growing strategic significance of artificial intelligence.
The discussion focused on the transformation of AI from a primarily technical domain into a central element of economic security, state capacity, and geopolitical competition. Participants explored the expanding role of governments not only as regulators, but also as active stakeholders shaping AI ecosystems through investment, deployment, and policy frameworks.
The panel discussion was moderated by Silvia Boltuc, Managing Director of Special Eurasia of Italy, and brought together Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry of Armenia, Omran Sharaf, Assistant Foreign Minister for Advanced Science and Technology of the United Arab Emirates, Christos Harpantidis, Group Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Philip Morris International of Greece, and Arsen Babayan, Chief Technology Officer of Ineco Group of Armenia.
Particular attention was given to the concept of AI sovereignty, including the capacity of states to develop, control, and govern advanced technologies in line with national priorities. Participants also discussed the challenges of scaling AI systems responsibly, ensuring ethical standards, and balancing innovation with regulatory oversight.
The discussion underscored that effective governance of frontier technologies requires coordinated approaches that integrate public and private sector efforts, while maintaining competitiveness and adherence to international norms.
